Rochdale dog wins Best of Breed award at Crufts

Carole Hartley-Mair and her Bernese Mountain Dog Milo who won Best of Breed at Crufts

Carole Hartley-Mair from Rochdale and her prized pooch put their best paw forward to scoop a major prize at Crufts.

The 62-year-old and her Bernese Mountain Dog Milo, claimed the prestigious Best of Breed award for their class, before finishing as the runner-up in the Working group.

“I’ve had Bernese Mountain Dogs for 35 years" said Carole.

“It came as a surprise when they announced it. I could tell the judge liked him, but it was still such a shock.

“Crufts means everything to me. It’s the biggest and best dog show in the world.

“I have been coming to Crufts since I was a little girl, and it’s taken me 50 years to get into the Best of Breed ring at Crufts."

The four-day event at the NEC in Birmingham is run by The Kennel Club, with just under 21,000 dogs from 220 different breeds competing for a chance to win Best in Show and millions watching live coverage on Channel 4. 

“Milo was a bit silly in the ring, but that’s just his character,” Carol added. 

“He hears the clap and it’s hard to calm him down - he’s an exuberant boy. He just enjoys showing so much, and always has done.

“When people start clapping he goes all silly and he just loves it! He’s a proper showman and such a clown.

“He’ll be back on the bed tonight though!”